Pedestrian Struck by Vehicle on High Street Under Investigation

[Chief M Richards]

On Wednesday February 21, 2018 at 2:26 pm, the Newton Police Department received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on High Street (Rt. 94) near the intersection of Church Street. Officers immediately responded and found Michael J. Bencivenga, a 70-year-old resident of Newton lying on the ground unresponsive. 

Newton First Aid Squad, St. Clare’s Paramedic Unit and Atlantic Health Aeromedical were all requested and responded.  Bencivenga was airlifted to Morristown Medical Center for treatment of his injuries that included injuries to his head and the sides of his body.  He is currently listed in critical condition.

The vehicle that struck him was at the scene and the driver was identified as Howard B. Kern, an 83-year-old resident of Fredon, NJ.  Investigation was conducted at the scene and any charges are pending further investigation.  A portion of High Street was closed briefly during the on-scene investigation.

Responding Officers included Sergeant Michael Monaco, Det. Sergeant Steven VanNieuwland, Det. Thomas Tosti, Ptl. John Flanagan, Ptl. Jared Zappa and Ptl. Anthony Keiling.  They were also assisted at the scene by members of the Newton Water & Sewer Department and Newton Fire Department as well as Detectives from the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office.

If anyone has any information regarding the incident, please contact the Newton Police at 973-383-2525 or submit tips anonymously via Text “274-637” with keyword “NEWTON” (http://newtonpolice.org/crime-tips/).